NYC Bethesda Fountain in Central Park

This is the Bethesda Fountain, located in Central Park, New York City, near the Bethesda Terrace. The fountain, with its iconic Angel of the Waters sculpture, has been a beloved landmark since its unveiling in 1873.

Chasing Light at Bethesda Fountain
A Memory from Central Park

A few years ago, long before Kass’s YouTube channel came to life, he wandered through Central Park with a camera slung around his neck. The photography bug had already taken hold, a quiet passion that drove him to seek out beauty in the world’s fleeting moments. On this particular day, the air was crisp, the trees bare, and the park felt like a serene escape from the city’s hum. Kass was drawn to the Bethesda Terrace, where the famous Bethesda Fountain stood in all its glory.

The fountain’s centerpiece, the Angel of the Waters, seemed to glow in the soft winter light. Designed by Emma Stebbins, the statue depicts an angel with outstretched wings, standing atop a tiered basin, her gaze serene as if blessing the waters below. Kass stood back, framing the shot through his lens. The angel’s bronze figure contrasted beautifully with the muted grays of the surrounding trees, and the still water of the lake beyond reflected her form like a mirror. He adjusted his aperture, chasing the perfect balance of light and shadow, knowing this was a moment worth capturing.

Kass had read about the fountain’s history—how it was built to celebrate the Croton Aqueduct’s completion, bringing clean water to New York City in the 1840s. The angel, with her lily in hand, symbolized healing and purity, a nod to the biblical story of Bethesda’s pool. But for Kass, it wasn’t just the history that drew him in. It was the way the statue seemed to hold court in the park, a quiet sentinel amidst the bustle of joggers, tourists, and dog walkers. He snapped a photo, then another, circling the fountain to catch the angel from every angle.

As he worked, Kass noticed the smaller figures at the angel’s base—four cherubs representing temperance, purity, health, and peace. They were intricate, almost alive in their detail, and he zoomed in to capture their expressions. The park was quieter than usual, with orange barriers set up in the background, perhaps for maintenance or an event. It gave the scene an intimate feel, like the fountain was posing just for him.

Kass spent nearly an hour there, lost in the act of seeing. He wasn’t thinking about likes or subscribers—those days were still ahead. Back then, it was just him, his camera, and the beauty he sought to preserve. The Bethesda Fountain, with its graceful angel and timeless presence, became one of his favorite captures from that trip, a reminder of why he fell in love with photography in the first place. Years later, he’d look back on that day and smile, knowing it was moments like these that set him on his path.

This story captures Kass’s early photography passion, the serene beauty of the Bethesda Fountain, and the quiet magic of Central Park.

Empire State Building NYC View

View of Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of the most iconic and recognizable landmarks in New York City. Standing at 1,454 feet tall, this historic skyscraper offers visitors an unparalleled view of the city that never sleeps. From its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors, visitors can take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and beyond.

The view from the Empire State Building is a truly unique experience that captures the hustle and bustle of Manhattan below. Visitors can see famous landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge, as well as the sprawling cityscape of skyscrapers and bustling streets. The view from the top of the Empire State Building provides a perspective that showcases the vastness and diversity of New York City.

In addition to the stunning views, the Empire State Building also offers visitors an educational and immersive experience. The newly renovated observation decks feature informative exhibits and interactive displays that highlight the history and significance of the building, as well as the city of New York itself. Visitors can learn about the construction of the building, its place in popular culture, and the engineering feats that made it possible.

Visiting the Empire State Building and taking in the view from its observation decks is a must-do for anyone visiting New York City. Whether it's your first time in the city or you're a longtime resident, the view from the Empire State Building offers a perspective that is both awe-inspiring and unparalleled. So, if you find yourself in the Big Apple, don't miss the chance to experience the breathtaking view from this iconic skyscraper.

Trip to New York City from Calgary Alberta

New York City, also known as the "City that Never Sleeps," is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that attracts visitors from all around the world. From the iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park to the trendy neighbourhoods like Chelsea, SoHo, and Greenwich Village, there is something for everyone in the Big Apple.

One of the most popular places to stay while visiting New York City is on Times Square, the neon-lit intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue that is the heart of the city's entertainment district. Staying in a hotel on Times Square puts you in the midst of the action, with easy access to the theatres, restaurants, and shops that dot the area.

For those flying in from Calgary, Alberta, the trip to New York City is a relatively easy one, with a flight time of around 5 hours. Once you arrive, there are plenty of transportation options available to get you to your hotel, including taxis, buses, and subways.